Seniors: let's talk graduation

March 13, 2014 | 11 a.m.

Office on campus helps students through each step of finding a job

News | Kaylena Heinecke for The Clarion

Many students walk by CC322 without giving it a passing glance, unaware of the assistance it could offer them. The Office of Career Development and Calling is a voluntary service to all students at Bethel University, where faculty assist students in their career aspirations. Dave Broza, director of Career Development and Calling, and Associate Director Will O’Brien provide a variety of services for seniors who are on the verge of accepting their diploma and heading out into the world.

The faculty in this department assist students in choosing a major that is right for them, teach them how to utilize networking techniques and conduct informational interviews, and help them to write effective resumés and cover letters. Students can also find tips on developing internship and job search strategies and applying for graduate school. While the office serves both current students and alumni.

In the fall, seniors have a plethora of opportunities to engage with representatives and hiring organizations. O’Brien confirmed this with his experiences this fall.

“In the fall, our students can attend the Government and Nonprofit Career Fair. This fair is also open to alumni, so some graduates from spring 2013 and earlier years attended that fair, too,” said O’Brien.

In addition to the career fairs available, the department also began a new program this year called Career Conversations. Within this program, employers travel to Bethel and offer “mock interviews, resume feedback, and general career advice,” according to O'Brien. As students are preparing to graduate, the faculty in the department are constantly researching and looking for opportunities for the seniors that they work with.

“I’m constantly looking for connections on LinkedIn and at professional association conferences," O'Brien said. "We’ve got great students, and companies love to hire Bethel students. But I want to find the best ones. So I’m trying to learn about the best training programs, the companies that are most liked by their employees and the opportunities that can help ourstudents and alumni connect with their vocation.”

Broza emphasized how important genuine connections are. He explained that a person’s relationship with God is number one, but the next important is his or her relationship with others.

“Engaging in those relationships with other people and taking an interest in others affects our job search greatly,” Broza said. “If you take an interest in them, they will take an interest in you.”

Both Broza and O’Brien had advice to share with the students of Bethel. “Make sure to create strong, sincere relationships with others that you meet. People will want to help you fulfill that dream,” Broza said.

“You are about to have a lot of new experiences, so be flexible and faithful as you embrace all of the new adventures and challenges,” O'Brien added.

Both Broza and O'Brien said they desire for students to take advantage of all the office has to offer. In fact, Broza got down on his hands and knees and begged for seniors to come visit.

“I believe with all my heart that God has prepared you for specific work, and although a certain job might not be necessarily clear to you, I think it would be an act of worship to pursue the path that he has prepared for you," he said. "Go into it with a lot of prayer.”

O'Brien also offered some parting advice to seniors, “Congratulations! Your hard work has paid off, and you are ready for your next act of worship. Your first real job," he said.

"As a faithful student, you’ve gained the knowledge, skills and abilities to thrive in your career. Now you are ready to serve in your newcareer. You can do it. No matterhow daunting a new job sounds, you are more prepared than you know."

Students looking for guidance at any stage in their careersearch can contact 651-638-6460 or stop in CC322 to make an appointment.